At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide top-notch business support to the Defence Director and coordinate key activities.
- Company: Join a leading organisation supporting defence and security sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, and generous leave options.
- Other info: Experience in defence or membership organisations is a plus; National Security clearance required.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the defence sector while developing your professional skills.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office are essential.
The predicted salary is between 56000 - 64000 £ per year.
ADS operates a number of Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and wider engagement activity to support business development opportunities for members, shape and influence policy, and help increase investment in our sector. We have a requirement for a dedicated individual to provide high-quality business support and executive assistance to the Defence Director, ensuring the Defence team is well coordinated, informed and able to deliver against strategic priorities.
The postholder will act as a key point of contact for the Defence sector team, supporting ADS engagement with the Front-Line Commands, Ministry of Defence, Single Source Regulations Office and NATO Industry Advisory Group (NIAG). The role will also lead production of the Defence Impact Report and the monthly Defence Bulletin, create bespoke presentations and briefing packs, and provide business support to the Head of Defence Commercial.
This role would suit a candidate with strong executive assistant/secretarial capability and confident written communications skills, able to manage competing priorities, handle sensitive information with discretion and work proactively under their own initiative. Strong Microsoft Office skills are essential (Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint). Experience in a membership organisation, CRM administration and/or the defence and security environment is desirable. The role holder must be willing to undergo National Security clearance.
The role reports to the Defence Director (providing Executive Assistant and business support), with a dotted-line support relationship to the Head of Defence Commercial for agreed activities.
We are seeking a highly professional and proactive candidate with proven experience providing executive-level business support to senior leaders. You will bring strong organisational skills and exceptional attention to detail, with the ability to manage complex diaries, coordinate meetings, and prioritise multiple workstreams effectively.
An excellent communicator, you will be confident drafting and quality-assuring a range of outputs including briefings, reports, minutes and member-facing updates, while building strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels. You will demonstrate high levels of discretion and integrity, handling sensitive information appropriately and be willing to undergo National Security clearance.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office is essential, particularly in creating high-quality PowerPoint presentations alongside strong working knowledge of Outlook, Word and Excel. You will be self-sufficient and solutions-focused, using sound judgement and initiative to anticipate needs, resolve issues, and ensure the smooth delivery of regular outputs to tight deadlines.
Experience providing structured secretariat support and maintaining effective governance processes is important, and exposure to CRM/data systems or the defence, security or membership environment would be advantageous.
Contract Type: Permanent, full-time role, Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours per week.
Location: Hybrid working - 3 days in the London office and 2 days from home.
Benefits: Bonus, pension, private health insurance, life insurance, season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme, 9-day fortnight, hybrid working, extended remote working, enhanced parental leave, 28 days annual leave, buy additional annual leave, long service additional annual leave.
Defence Business Support Executive in London employer: ADS
At ADS, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the contributions of our Defence Business Support Executive. With a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and development, our hybrid working model allows for a balanced lifestyle while providing access to comprehensive benefits such as private health insurance, a generous leave policy, and opportunities for additional annual leave. Join us in shaping the future of the defence sector while enjoying a rewarding career in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Defence Business Support Executive in London
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like ADS, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like ADS and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Defence Business Support Executive in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for ADS and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at ADS
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with ADS, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for ADS.
